The aroma fills your kitchen, making your taste buds dance in anticipation. Imagine biting into crispy baked chicken tenders with a side of sweet and tangy honey mustard dip that just makes everything feel right in the world.
I can still hear my friend Sarah’s laughter as we devoured these delectable nuggets of joy at her game night party last year. Perfectly golden on the outside and juicy inside, they’re the kind of dish that makes everyone forget their diet—at least for one night!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor
- The golden crust is visually appealing and will impress your guests
- Pair them with honey mustard dip for a sweet and savory explosion of taste
- Versatile enough for dinner or a snack—everyone loves them!
I remember serving these to my family during our Friday movie nights; they devoured every last piece while fighting over the last dip!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you need to feed.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs simply can’t match.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh cheese to add a nutty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning to elevate your chicken’s flavor without overpowering it.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for an added depth of smoky goodness that will surprise your taste buds!
- Honey: A drizzle of this sticky sweetness is essential for creating that irresistible honey mustard dip.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides the perfect balance of tangy and sweet when mixed with honey for dipping goodness.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to help the breadcrumbs stick while adding richness to your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Create Your Breading Station: Set up three bowls—one for flour mixed with salt and pepper, another for beaten eggs, and a third filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese and spices.
Dredge the Chicken Tenders: Take each piece of chicken and coat it first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then dunk it into the egg wash before finally rolling it in the panko breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Bake It Up!: Arrange your coated chicken tenders on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Make That Honey Mustard Dip!: While the chicken cooks, whisk together ¼ cup of honey with ¼ cup of Dijon mustard in a small bowl until well combined; adjust sweetness as desired.
Taste Test Time!: Once out of the oven, let those bad boys rest for a few minutes before diving in. Serve them hot alongside that delicious honey mustard dip!
Now you’re all set to enjoy this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
You Must Know
- Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip are easy to make and perfect for any occasion
- The crispy texture with tender chicken inside is an unbeatable combination
- Perfectly paired with the sweet and tangy honey mustard dip, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly baked chicken tenders, coat them in breadcrumbs, then bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. You can also try different dips like ranch or barbecue.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When breading chicken, ensure it’s dry first; moisture makes it soggy
- For crunchier tenders, double-bread them by dipping again in egg and breadcrumbs
- Lastly, let them rest after baking to keep them juicy before serving!
Sharing my first experience making Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip reminded me how much my kids love finger foods. Their smiles made all the effort worthwhile!
FAQ
How can I make gluten-free baked chicken tenders?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour as a substitute for traditional flour.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, just be sure to adjust cooking time according to package instructions for best results.
What can I serve alongside baked chicken tenders?
Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or crispy fries for a complete meal.
Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approximately 16 tenders)
Description
Baked Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Dip are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or game nights. Enjoy tender chicken strips paired with a delightful sweet and tangy dip.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko mixed with parmesan and spices.
- Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, dip in egg wash, then roll in the panko mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- For the honey mustard dip, whisk together equal parts honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Allow the chicken to rest briefly before serving with the honey mustard dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
